Powdered psyllium husks are the ground coats of seed from psyllium (Plantago ovata), a plant native to India and Pakistan where it known as isabgol or isphagula.Powdered psyllium husk, which is mild and pleasant tasting, is added to foods as a thickener. Because the husks contain so much fiber, starch and mucilage, the powder is used as a thickening agent in the food industry in the manufacture of frozen foods, especially ice cream.